analogous to a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "analogous to a" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when drawing a comparison between two different things that share similarities in certain aspects. Example: "The relationship between the teacher and student is analogous to a mentor and mentee dynamic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Maybe it's analogous to a book's spine.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It is completely analogous to a lot of business situations.

The New York Times - Magazine

Watching him, one sees something analogous to a religious transformation.

The New York Times - Arts

They seem to be the most analogous to a Target".

The New York Times

The following story is analogous to a terrorist situation.

The Guardian - Opinion

The model's prediction is analogous to a weather forecast.

The New York Times

It's quite analogous to a kind of blog, really".

The New York Times

Might they have seen their works as analogous to a kind of spirit photography?

The New York Times - Arts

Economists have long argued that a child is analogous to a "consumer durable," like a refrigerator.

The New Yorker

"If that's not analogous to a TV show, then I don't know what is".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"It's analogous to a studio inviting critics to a free premiere.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "analogous to a", ensure that the comparison you are making is clear and serves to illuminate the characteristic you are trying to explain. The comparison should add clarity, not confusion.

Common error

Avoid stretching the comparison too far. While "analogous to a" helps to draw parallels, ensure the similarities are genuine and relevant. Overextended analogies can weaken your argument and confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "analogous to a" functions as a prepositional phrase, introducing a comparison that explains or clarifies a concept by drawing parallels to something else. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently used to simplify complex ideas by relating them to more familiar concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "analogous to a" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to draw comparisons and clarify complex ideas by relating them to more familiar concepts. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, primarily in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the comparison is clear and relevant to avoid confusion. Consider alternatives like "similar to a" or "comparable to a" based on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember not to overextend the analogy to maintain clarity and avoid weakening your argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to a

Emphasizes a general resemblance, differing slightly in formality.

comparable to a

Highlights that the items being compared share common characteristics.

akin to a

Suggests a close similarity or affinity.

resembling a

Focuses on the visual or superficial similarities.

equivalent to a

Indicates that the items being compared serve the same function or have the same value.

parallel to a

Highlights a correspondence or similarity in development or form.

corresponding to a

Implies a direct relationship or match between two things.

much like a

A more informal way of expressing similarity.

in the same vein as a

Indicates a similarity in style, manner, or approach.

of a piece with a

Suggests a harmony or consistency between two things.

FAQs

How can I use "analogous to a" in a sentence?

Use "analogous to a" to draw a comparison between two things that share similar characteristics or functions. For example, "The human heart is analogous to a pump in its function of circulating blood."

What are some alternatives to using "analogous to a"?

You can use alternatives such as "similar to a", "comparable to a", or "akin to a" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "analogous to a" and "similar to a"?

While both phrases indicate a likeness, "analogous to a" often implies a deeper or more functional similarity, whereas "similar to a" can refer to a more superficial resemblance.

When is it appropriate to use "analogous to a" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "analogous to a" when you want to explain a concept or idea by comparing it to something more familiar or easily understood, highlighting their shared properties or functions. Ensure that your comparison is relevant and adds clarity.